Dimensions: Height 17,5 cm Wide 9,8 cm Depth 9,8 cm

Weight: 613 grams

This remarkable ritual bell is surmounted by a finely cast figure of Hanuman, the monkey-god revered as the embodiment of strength, devotion, and loyalty. Hanuman is depicted standing in añjali mudrā (gesture of reverence), richly adorned with jewelry and a tall headdress, his simian features modeled with expressive realism.

The bell itself, functional as a ritual object, would have been used during temple ceremonies and domestic puja to summon the deity’s presence and sanctify offerings. The juxtaposition of the devotional image of Hanuman with the resonant bell underscores his role as a protector and divine messenger, eternally vigilant to the calls of his devotees.

Symbolically, the sound of the bell represents the primordial vibration (nāda) of the universe, a pure resonance that clears negativity and calls forth the divine. When paired with Hanuman, this symbolism is heightened: Hanuman is the archetypal devotee who responds instantly to the call of dharma and to the voices of his worshippers. The ringing of this bell thus becomes an invocation not only of divine presence, but of Hanuman’s swiftness, strength, and protective grace.

The casting displays fine detail, especially in the facial features and ornaments, while the patina suggests long ritual use. Comparable examples of figural bells with deities are found in South India, though those surmounted with Hanuman are particularly rare and sought after, reflecting the depth of Hanuman’s worship as the ideal bhakta (devotee) of Rama.